Fo Guang Shan New Zealand
December 30, 2023

On 10th December 2023, Fo Guang Yuan (FGY) Art Gallery Christchurch hosted the third session of the Tea Ceremony event. President of BLIA South Island Subchapter 1 Tiffany Su, served as the Practitioner and guided 10 guests through a journey of traditional Chinese tea culture, experiencing the essence of mindfulness.

The event commenced with soothing music allowing participants to relax their bodies and minds. The practitioner brewed tea and explained the tea-making process with a Buddhist story. Under the guidance of the Practitioner, participants were immersed in the present moment and experienced the mindfulness state of the Tea Ceremony.

Participants are immersed in the present moment and experienced the mindfulness state of the Tea Ceremony. photo／FGS NZ

Additionally, the organizer arranged a special Chinese Traditional Dance performance which was presented by BLIA YAD Tianna Zhang. Followed by a melodious Guqin piece which was performed by South Island Subchapter 2 President Qian CAO. Their performances offered attendees a deeper appreciation of Chinese musical art.

A special Chinese Traditional Dance performance is presented by BLIA YAD Tianna Zhang. photo／FGS NZ

Attendees expressed great enjoyment of the event, noting that the tea tasted especially fragrant in their calmer state of body and mind. This Tea Ceremony experience provided not only an introduction to Chinese culture but also inspired participants to integrate the principles of Ch’an into their daily lives, thereby enriching them with a sense of peace and joy.